1. Listen to the Captain
One person is designated the captain on a sailboat and all the crewmembers need to follow the directions of the captain to avoid accidents as well as to enjoy the sailing. In addition to learning about wind and how the boat reacts to shifts in the sails, you need to learn an entire new language so you'll know how to respond to the orders when they are given. There are names for the knots and lines you will work while sailing. There's a name for the seat you choose and how you move around the boat. Sailboat racers are breeds unto themselves and will lop off your head if you interfere with their gaining one-eighth of a knot in a race. When given a job on a sailboat, you should listen to and respond quickly to the captain's orders. A quick gust of wind can come and go in an instant. The sails are constantly adjusted to keep the boat flat in the water. A sailboat moves most efficiently when the hull is evenly in the water. A smaller sailboat, or a dinghy, will tip easily if it heels too far to either side.
2. Pay Attention While Boating
While the captain is responsible for letting people know when the boom is about to move or when a sail is going to be raised or lowered, it is still the responsibility of each crewmember to pay attention to what's going on around the boat topside and below decks. The captain cannot see everything and often will make snap decisions before knowing where everyone is in relation to the movements of the boat. A sailboat crew has to work as a team, with each member watching out for the others. The captain also counts on the crew to give him a heads up when a powerboat may be approaching or if a log or something else is in the water that he can't see.
3. Take Care of Yourself
Learn to swim if you are going to spend any time on a sailboat. If you are not a proficient swimmer or if you are in particularly high seas during a trip, then you should put on a life vest. It is common practice for sailors to don safety gear. No one will think less of you. Tie yourself on to a cleated rope if you fee like you could be thrown overboard. Wear boat shoes that with nonskid soles that will help you grab onto the boat as you move around. Also excuse yourself from any position on the crew that makes you uncomfortable. If you don't feel strong enough to pull in one a line, then get someone else to do it rather than risk an accident.
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